Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy or Meeting with a Psychologist

Who knew when you started googling find a therapist near me that you would’ve found so many options, and be left with SO many questions? Below I will answer some common questions about therapy and specifically about how I work.

How do therapy sessions typically last? 

The first appointment is 60 minutes and follow up appointments are 50 minutes

What happens during the first therapy session? 

Typically I ask questions to get a better understanding of what you are looking for and the type of help you need. This first appointment is also time for us to both assess if I am a good fit.

How do I know if I (or my child) really need therapy?

Changes in behavior or emotions are usually signs. If changes last for more then a few weeks or get in the way of school, work, family, or friendships these are tell tale signs that therapy may be helpful. Look out for excessive worries or fears, consistent sadness, irritability or aggressive behavior, changes in eating or sleeping patterns, or unexplained headaches or stomachaches. I also think that if you are concerned then consulting with a professional is a good next step (even if it just gives you peace of mind). Sometimes the best place to start is your child’s pediatrician/primary care provider as they know your child, are up to date on child development, and can provide guidance about next steps if they share your concern.

How often will I/my child need to come to therapy? 

Depending on the concerns I typically recommend every week or every other week initially. For patients who have met their initial goals and want to remain in therapy for maintenance we can re-evaluate and less frequently is an option at this point.

How long will I need to come to therapy? 

If we decide that we’re a good fit after the first appointment then I ask patients to commit to 12 sessions. We’ll check in on progress every appointment and at the end of the 12 sessions we’ll evaluate if we are reaching the goals. I have found that the initial commitment of 12 appointments coupled with consistency tends to be most helpful in helping patients make progress towards their goals. At the end of the 12 weeks if goals are met I either graduate patients from therapy, we continue working together on new goals, or we develop a maintenance plan. If goals are not met then we will re-evaluate whether to continue our work together or if it makes more sense to switch to someone else.

How much do sessions cost? 

The first appointment is $250. Follow up appointments cost $200 for a 50 minute appointment.

Are sessions covered by my insurance?

I believe there should be no stigma in seeking counseling. However, I also believe one reason therapy is so powerful is because it is a truly private experience. It is for this reason (and many others) that I am not an in-network provider for any insurance company. As an out-of-network provider we can decide how much, if any, information you want shared with your insurance company. I am an out-of-network provider for most PPO plans, and I can provide you a form for seeking reimbursement from your insurance company. We will discuss your needs for privacy and I am happy to answer any questions you have about how to maintain your privacy while utilizing your insurance.

How do I seek reimbursement from my insurance company? 

Review your health insurance policy to make sure you understand the out-of-network benefits. Look for information about reimbursement rates, deductible requirements, and any necessary forms or procedures. Patients pay me at the time of their appointments and I will provide you a receipt and a “superbill” which is a document that has the information insurers need to reimburse an appointment. Some insurance companies require a claim form to accompany the superbill. You can obtain this form from your insurer’s website. Attach the Superbill to the claim form and submit both to your insurance company (usually online or by mail).

Do you have evening and weekend appointments available? 

I have limited appointments after school and in the early evening. I do not have any weekend availability.

Where do sessions take place? 

Sessions take place either at my office at 815 Crocker Rd., Unit 5, Westlake, OH, online, or if walk and talk we start and end at my office.

Who do you work with? 

I specialize in working with children ages 6+.

*If your child is 3-5 years old I work with their parents to help with emotional regulation and behavioral problems. For the majority of children this age I primarily work with the parent/guardian on strategies to implement with your child at home.

I also specialize in working with new parents on the transition to parenthood and postpartum/peripartum issues (during and after pregnancy).

If you don’t fall into these categories and are interested in working with me feel free to reach out. I will let you know if I feel like I am a good fit and if not I’ll do my best to guide you in the right direction.

What if therapy isn't working? 

Sometimes this happens. There are other options. If I’m not the best fit or my approach isn’t the best type of therapy for you (or your child) we can discuss taking a break from therapy or a referral to someone else.